Cabo Froward is the southernmost point of the American continent and was recently highlighted as a must-see by the prestigious magazine.
Located on the Brunswick Peninsula, in the heart of the Strait of Magellan, Cabo Froward has captured international attention, being highlighted by the New York Times Travel as one of the 52 places to visit in 2026.
The reason? Its raw nature, whale watching, and its transformation into the country's next National Park. If you are looking for an adventure that challenges your limits, this is your destination.
What will you find in Cabo Froward?
Photography: @chilenativo
Cabo Froward is more than a geographical landmark: it is a natural sanctuary at the end of the continent. This territory in the extreme south of Chile is advancing to become a future national park, protecting more than 121,600 hectares. Here, the wind, the sea, and an untamed geography sculpt the landscape.
When you travel through it, you will find:
- Peat bogs and ancient forests: You will walk among coigües, canelos, and the majestic Guaitecas cypress, the southernmost conifer on the planet.
- Wildlife in freedom: In the sea, you can see southern dolphins and Peale's dolphins. In addition, between December and March, it is one of the best destinations for humpback whale watching, sei and fin. On the mainland, species such as the puma and one of the southernmost populations of huemul inhabit.
- Geographical landmarks: At the summit awaits the Cruz de los Mares, the imposing symbol that marks the end of the continental mass of America and offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the Strait of Magellan. With 24 meters high, this metallic structure is designed to resist the inclemencies of the Magellanic climate.
Trekking in Cabo Froward
Photography: Kayak Agua Fresca
To go trekking in Cabo Froward is to enter an expedition between beaches battered by the wind, evergreen forests, and extensive peat bogs, with views of the Strait of Magellan and the last kilometers of the Andes mountain range. The best time to visit is between November and March, when the days are longer (although the Magellanic climate is always a surprise!).
The Cabo Froward Heritage Route is the main journey and is recommended for people with experience and good preparation. It can be done round trip in about 8 days or one way in about 4 days, coordinating the pick-up by boat in advance. It is a trek of medium-high difficulty, which includes river crossings, therefore, requires planning according to tides.
For those looking for a shorter, but equally impactful experience, there is a one-day hike to the San Isidro Lighthouse (12 kilometers round trip). It can be done independently or through a tour from Punta Arenas, always with tourist services registered in Sernatur.
Another alternative is to arrive by sea from Punta Arenas and combine navigation with a high-intensity 4-kilometer trek to the Cruz de los Mares. The ascent lasts about 2 hours and offers panoramic views of the end of the continent, islands, and fjords. The approximate price is USD 330 per person.
Kayaking at the end of the continent
Photography: Kayak Agua Fresca
Another of the most intense experiences is a kayak expedition of 3 to 4 days through the Strait of Magellan. The journey starts from Punta Arenas and combines coastal paddling, support navigation, and camps in remote bays, bordering sectors such as the San Isidro Lighthouse and San Nicolás Bay, until the ascent to the Cruz de los Mares.
The reference value is USD 790 per person, depending on the operator and services included.
How to get to Cabo Froward?
The starting point is Punta Arenas, Magallanes Region.
- By vehicle: You must take Route 9 South towards Fuerte Bulnes and continue along the coast of the Brunswick Peninsula for about 70 kilometers until the road ends. Here begins the path of the Cabo Froward Heritage Route.
- Public transport: There are buses that reach the Río San Juan sector. From there, you will have to walk about 14 km to connect with the San Isidro Lighthouse trail.
Recommendations
Photography: Guy Wenborne
Cabo Froward is an extreme and isolated territory, so good planning is essential:
- Notice to Carabineros de Chile: It is mandatory to notify the police station of Agua Fresca before starting the journey and upon returning.
- Tides and climate: Always carry updated tide tables and rain/wind gear.
- Communication: Consider carrying VHF/UHF radio or satellite phone.
- Consider the hours of light, which vary greatly depending on the time of year.
- Travel only on the marked route, without deviating from the trail.
- Do not leave trash and return with all your waste.
- Camp only in authorized places.
